Holiday Heating Tips

The holidays are expensive enough without considering the burden of high heating costs. Smart operation of an efficient heating system can keep a good chunk of money in your hands.

Change your air filters and get your heating system checked before the holidays to ensure the best energy efficiency. Then, get ready to stay warm with these holiday heating tips!

Running the Heater Less

First, it’s important to note that central heating is more efficient than space heating unless you truly only need one small space heated. You can actually waste energy by tasking a space heater with too large an area.

Some effective ways to run the heater less this holiday season:

Use a programmable thermostat or turn the heating down a bit at night and when you’re away.

Turn the heater down after guests arrive at holiday parties and family get-togethers. Extra bodies and activity will keep the home warmer than you’re used to.

On your biggest cooking days, expect the warmth to disseminate and give your heating system some relief.

Bundle up! You can’t live under a blanket, but you can stay toasty with warm slippers, a fleece vest, and other cozy layers.

Keeping Out the Cold

Now’s the time to check your weatherstripping and insulation for leaks. Replace old weatherstripping on doors and seal up window frames as needed. Take a peek in the attic and storage rooms to see if you can find a draft to block up. Seal the chimney flue when you aren’t using it, too.

Energy Wise in the Kitchen

When you fire up the oven, cook multiple things at once. You can bake extra potatoes and microwave them later or roast a tray of vegetables while baking a pie. And, of course, avoid opening the oven door too often.

It’s also a great time of year to enjoy soups, stews, and chili. Make large pots and store them in single-serve containers for easy warm-up meals that do not require full cooking.

Basically, if you’re going to turn on the fuel, use it to make as much food as possible! You’ll appreciate having leftovers and make-ahead foods during this busy season.

Do you have low energy bills on your holiday wishlist this year? Make an appointment for winter heating maintenance from Grand Home Services and ask us about efficiency tips for your home!